Camping with your dog is a great and relatively inexpensive way to have a few fun days away with your canine pal, especially if you are feeling guilty about leaving them behind whilst you jet off to foreign climes on holiday. Last month we took the Black Dog to the New Forest for a couple of days and had a wonderful time. Aside from several long walks, swimming at the beach and trips to the pub he also seemed to love the whole experience and being with us in the tent.We were very aware of the reported cases of the Alabama Rot-type disease in the New Forest over the last year, but thousands of dogs are safely walked in the forest every day and cases have been reported nationwide including much closer to where we live, so having reviewed all the information and knowing what signs to look for, we decided the risks were acceptable for us - but everyone must make their own decision on that.

The Black Dog in the 'Dog Wash' at Roundhill campsite

We stayed at the Roundhill campsite, a couple of miles outside of Brockenhurst in the middle of the forest. The site is part one of a number managed by 'Camping in the Forest' - a partnership between the Forestry Commission & the Camping & Caravanning Club. They have a range of sites to suit different styles of camping & facilities, but with toilets, hot showers, washing facilities as well as New Forest ponies wandering free through the site, Roundhill had the right balance of isolation & conveniences for us.As well as exploring the walks & villages of the forest itself, the area is compact enough to explore slightly further afield - we spent a few hours on the beach at Hengistbury Head, as well as exploring the delightful harbourside town of Lymington on the edge of the forest, which we found very dog friendly.

The local branch of Caffe Nero, on Lymington high street, is dog friendly and very welcoming - the Black Dog had plenty of fuss & attention whilst we enjoyed a coffee. We also decided to return later for somewhat of a family tradition when we at the coast - fish & chips beside the water. On a lovely sunny summer evening, we certainly weren't the only ones to have the same idea and we sat beside the harbour with our local fish & chips enjoying watching the yachts coming and going in amongst the Isle of Wight ferries. When the local Morris dancing group turned up to entertain us all, the Black Dog was very perplexed as he was sure all the people watching were there to see him & not the entertainment!

With so much to see & do both in the forest itself and in the surrounding area, the New Forest makes for a great place for a short break with your dog - and what better way to get back to nature than with a few days camping in one of it's beautiful campsites!

The Black Dog Bakery - bakers of healthy, wholesome dog treats made with all the care your dog deserves!